'Biggest Loser' under investigation for illegal narcotics use on set
"The Biggest Loser" is under investigation by the L.A. County Sheriff's Department for illegal drug use following allegations by former contestants that the show pushed the use of amphetamines and diuretics to facilitate weight loss.
"In May, 2016, a journalist advised Malibu/Lost Hills station personnel of a news report regarding unsubstantiated allegations of illegal narcotics use in the past on the set of the television reality show, 'The Biggest Loser,' Lieutenant James Royal said in a statement released on Tuesday.
"Based on the information contained in the news report, Malibu/Lost Hills Station personnel are conducting an inquiry regarding the unsubstantiated allegations."
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NBC did not immediately respond to TheWrap's request for comment.
The New York Post reported last week that multiple former contestants of the NBC weight-loss competition show were encouraged to use drugs to lose weight, including by the show's trainers.
"Bob Harper was my trainer," said Joelle Gwynn of 2008's "Couples" season. "He goes away and his assistant comes in. He's got this brown paper bag that's bundled up. He says, 'Take this drug, it'll really help you.' It was yellow and black. I was like, 'What the f- -k is this?' "
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After taking the pill once, Gwynn surmised, "People chastise Bill Cosby for allegedly offering meds to women, but it's acceptable to do to fat people to make them lose weight. I feel like we got raped, too."
Producers of the show denied the allegations after the initial report last week, saying in a statement, "The safety and well-being of our contestants is, and has always been, paramount. Contestants are told at the start of the show that there is zero tolerance for any weight loss drugs. We prohibit the use of any illegal substances, in addition to the many other rules and procedures of the show that are designed to ensure safety."
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